In some mergers there truly are synergies - though often times the acquirer pays too much for them - but at other times the cost and revenue benefits that are projected prove illusory. Of one thing, however, be certain: if a CEO is enthused about a particularly foolish acquisition, both his internal staff and his outside advisors will come up with whatever projections are needed to justify his stance. Only in fairy tales are emperors told that they are naked

Warren Buffet 1930-, American investment entrepreneur

If you want quick and effective results you must put the money in

Edward Bullard 1907-1980, British geophysicist

Accountants are the witch-doctors of the modern world and willing to turn their hands to any kind of magic